Explore Our Commitment to Empowering Film and Television Professionals
The Set Ready Foundation was created by working film professionals who understand firsthand the challenges of transitioning from film education into real production environments. Our leadership team brings experience from across the industry, including camera, lighting, sound, editing, and production, and is committed to helping emerging filmmakers develop the professionalism, technical awareness, and collaborative mindset required on professional sets. By sharing knowledge, mentorship, and practical insight, we aim to support the next generation of crew members and strengthen the future of the film and television workforce.
Meet Our Expert Leadership
Discover the dedicated professionals driving our mission forward.
Neil Valdez
Founder & Executive Director
Neil Valdez is a member of IATSE Local 600 (International Cinematographers Guild). A graduate of Central New Mexico Community College’s Film Program (Class of 2016), he holds an Associate’s degree along with certificates in Film Technician and Post-Production. After recognizing the growing need for skilled crew in New Mexico’s expanding film industry, Valdez founded Set Ready to help prepare the next generation of film and television professionals with the mindset, professionalism, and practical skills required for real working sets.
Laura Marie Segura
Co-Founder & Director of Operations
Laura Marie Segura is a filmmaker, editor, and member of IATSE Local 600 (International Cinematographers Guild) based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Film Production, is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and received the All-State Academic Award recognized by the New Mexico Legislature. Segura has worked across directing, editing, and camera department roles on projects including Burlesque Ghost Hunters, Sam Still Sucks, Dead Man’s Hand, Love at First Sight, and the Detective Knight series. She is the founder of Unicorn Cinemagic and co-founder of the Set Ready Foundation.
Christopher Robleto-Harvey
Chief Sound Officer
Christopher Robleto-Harvey is a veteran production sound mixer, sound designer, and audio educator and a member of IATSE Local 480, with more than 20 years of experience in film, television, live events, and music production. A graduate of Vancouver Film School’s Sound Design for Visual Media program, he has worked across narrative, documentary, and broadcast productions specializing in location sound recording, dialogue editing, ADR, Foley, sound design, and surround mixing. His work has received international recognition, including a Maharashtra State Award and an Emmy Honorary Mention, and he is passionate about preparing emerging filmmakers for the practical realities of professional production audio.
Emmett van Halm
Chief Lighting Officer
Emmett van Halm is a member of IATSE Local 480 (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees) and works as a lighting designer and NM gaffer in New Mexico’s film and television industry. With a background in film production and lighting departments, he specializes in cinematic lighting techniques that support visual storytelling. His work focuses on shaping atmosphere, contrast, and mood to create visually compelling environments for productions, events, and media projects.
The Set Ready Foundation’s leadership exemplifies dedication and expertise, inspiring confidence in our mission to prepare future film and television crews.
Neil Valdez
Executive Director
Building the Next Generation of Film Professionals
The Set Ready Foundation was founded by working film professionals who understand the realities of production and the importance of preparation. Our leadership team brings experience from across camera, lighting, sound, editing, and production, and is committed to helping emerging filmmakers develop the knowledge, professionalism, and mindset needed to succeed on real working sets.